From New Jersey American Water:

New Jersey American Water’s Lead Service Line Replacement Program

In 2021, the state of New Jersey enacted a law that requires all water providers to share with customers the material of the utility-owned and customer-owned service lines that lead to their property, notify customers with service lines that are lead or galvanized steel, and replace them by 2031.

As part of New Jersey American Water’s commitment to providing safe drinking water, the distribution of pitcher filters to customers following a lead or galvanized steel service line replacement in Maplewood began on May 1, 2024. Customers received a pitcher filter and an information packet with installation and flushing instructions, in accordance with the upcoming U.S. EPA's Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (LCRR), which require water providers to distribute filters after these replacements beginning no later than October 16, 2024.

While New Jersey American Water’s water consistently meets state and federal water quality standards including those set for lead, the use of pitcher filters for six months after a service line replacement provides an extra layer of protection, as replacing lead and certain galvanized service lines may result in a temporary increase in lead levels in drinking water.

Approximately three to four months after the replacement, customers will receive a postcard from New Jersey American Water with information on how to arrange a free water test for lead, with results provided once available.

For more information on the program including frequently asked questions and tips on reducing lead exposure in drinking water, please visit the program website at www.newjerseyamwater.com/leadfacts.

Any questions customers may have about the program that is not answered by the frequently asked questions online can be sent to New Jersey American Water Lead Team at leadfreenj@amwater.com.